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Four Seasons inks deal for downtown New York hotel

The hotel will take up 22 stories of developer Larry Silverstein's planned 80 story tower at 99 Church St., one block north of Ground Zero.

Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts announced today that it has signed an agreement with developer Larry Silverstein to open its first property in the city in 15 years.

The new hotel will be at 99 Church St., one block north of Ground Zero. The agreement to build it marks another important step in the revitalization of downtown.

The hotel will take up 22 stories of the planned 80 story tower, which will also include 143 condominiums, making it New York’s tallest residential structure. It will be built on the site of the former headquarters of Moody’s Corp. The building, which is being designed by noted New York architect Robert A.M. Stern, is expected to be completed in 2011.

The 175-room Four Seasons will feature luxury amenities, including a spa, an indoor pool and a restaurant.

The chain’s midtown outpost, the Four Seasons 57th Street, currently ranks as the most expensive hostelry in the city. Its downtown outpost will be the second super luxury property in the neighborhood, just blocks away from the six-year-old Ritz Carlton Battery Park, which is undergoing its first major renovation later this year.

Construction of the new hotel is being managed by Tishman Construction Corp. and is expected to begin in June. Demolition of the existing building began last October.

The project was announced this morning at a press conference sponsored by the Alliance for Downtown New York.

“Larry Silverstein helped jump-start lower Manhattan by rebuilding 7 World Trade Center,” said Elizabeth Berger, president of the business improvement district. “Larry’s ongoing development of the World Trade Center site and his new project at 99 Church St. are reasons why Lower Manhattan is a global model for urban centers of the 21st century.”

Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group will handle the residential sales.

Four Seasons Hotel New York Reviews

“We can't get enough of the Four Seasons”
Four Seasons Hotel New York

We stayed again at the Four Seasons NY, for my son's birthday celebration.
It's hard not to like this place, where they pamper you endlessly, even if you're not a celebrity.
During the Christmas season, there's a "beany baby" tree in the lobby, which the kids get to pick from at every meal, or just walking by. (The hotel is owned by Ty Warner, creator of Beanie Babies)

We always opt to include breakfast with the rate, because we will eat the extra 60$ they charge to include it. There was a stay 2 nights, get 1 free, so it almost made it reasonable in cost.

The location is great if you're looking to stay near the park, and the shopping is extremely close as as well.


“Astonishing Palace - Wonderful Four Seasons”
Four Seasons Hotel New York

Wonderful stay at the Four Seasons Hotel New York so far the finest Hotel I have ever stayed in. My experience has been amazing if I value the physical features of the Hotel (including interior and exterior design/architecture) as well as the quality of service I received by all the staff, commencing from the doorman at your arrival.

The Hotel is a 52-story building at a premier location 57 East 57 Street, between Park and Madison Avenue. For some reasons – such as the masonry building and the punched windows – it reflects the perfect tradition of New York and fits in it gorgeously, whereas in a different way itself stands alone: it is not a flat building but a light limestone cascade which creates an inviting scale for the main entrance. At each corner is set a lantern which at night create an invitation from the outside. The light honey colour of the limestone tower gives you a sense of well being and when you are inside it is all a surprise.

Lobby
Impressive, high ceiling with columns, onyx and limestone composes the foyer which is open onto the terraced lobby lounges on both sides. On one side there is 57 Restaurant and on the other side you have the TY Bar.

Front Office/Concierge
The reception is located past to the Concierge’ desk, which is in front of the main entrance. Staff is excellent – kind prompt friendly – they always come with a smile. Check-in is was quick and although the Hotel was fully committed we did not have to wait for our room to be ready. With the Concierge we only arranged a couple of sightseeing plus booked 2 dinner and experienced their insightful knowledge.

Room
Larger than average Deluxe Room, even for NY standards with plenty of space for a comfortable sitting area with a divan, armchair – seating for 3 people with a large coffee table. The FS beds are marvellous all over the world, I would love to buy one for my home.

There is a large oval table which serves either as a working desk either as a dining table. At the desk you do have the cable for the Internet connection, a printer/fax/scanner at your disposal and all the electrical devices for your laptop. The table faces the huge glass window, which itself overlooked the bustling 57th Street. Even if you are not staying at top floor – we were at 28th – you would definitely enjoy stunning views of the city.

Upgrade
On our seventh and last night, we have been upgraded to an enormous 93 square metres studio-one-bedroom suite on the 50th floor (see picture). We enjoyed breathtaking views of Manhattan either at day and night and there was also a private terrace which we – unfortunately - cannot take advantage of because of a tight working schedule. All of our baggage have been packed and unpacked for the room move, but you have to authorize them for that.

Bathroom
Huge full marble bathroom with ample space. Features: englassed walk-in shower and separated bath-tub that really fills-in within 60 seconds, it is a promise – perfect for a last minute relaxing bath after a long day of work or sightseeing. Luxurious Bulgari Amenities that are replenished twice daily. Excellent turn down service as per the picture and very nice touch the plasma TV screen.

Restaurants
We dine once at the outstanding l’Atelier de Joel Robuchon where we experienced an excellent service. The ambience is sophisticated and elegant yet casual. The kitchen is open onto the dining area and you can see the Chef at work, which is basically the meaning of the word “Atelier”. The dishes are tasteful – even if you are not a French cuisine fan – and presentation is top notch. You can even choose less formal dining options such as Express Menu which we enjoyed at the fairly reasonable price of USD 54.

If you are looking for something less ambitious the 57 Restaurant is good as well and overlooks the main lobby. Great for business breakfast and/or lunch.

At the TY Bar you can choose among a wide range of Martinis for appetizers or cocktails. This is facing the main lobby too, with a very nice fireplace.

Breakfast:
It is not buffet, of course, and you can choose among the most sophisticated combination of cold and hot dishes according to your low fat diet, or choose a Breafast Menu such as American/Continental/Japanese/Central Park: I loved the Central Park Menu and also tried the Japanese one with the finest grilled salmon and green tea I have ever tried. All of them are approximately at USD 30, except for the Japanese USD 47, which is not that much for what it is included. One breakfast menu can be sufficient for 2 persons or even for three.
Fitness Centre:
500 square metres of space for your daily routine with complimentary juice/water and cut fruits. A wonderful experience to start or end your day in the city, better if combined with the Spa.

Spa:
Whirlpool, Jacuzzi and Turkish bath are perfect for relaxing in a tranquil environment. Did not have massage/treatments and cannot judge on the quality and service but it certainly is overpriced.

Negatives:
Do not have a swimming pool and the spa area needs much more air and open spaces.

Room features
I would have chosen parquet floors, instead of carpets, to give much more elegance to the room fittings.

Room Service:
Overpriced, in fact each dish is not inclusive of service charge, delivery charge, 17% tax and sales tax and - of course - you have to tip the waiter. If you are on budget, go for an a la carte breakfast in the restaurant.

Business Centre: the fee is expensive (i.e. 10 USD access + 1 USD per min + taxes) therefore, 1 hour for checking the e-mails and printing few pages comes to more than 70 USD. They should not charge for it and offer as complimentary.

Overall experience
This is definitely a place to stay in New York City.

Four Seasons Hotel New York

Rising over Manhattan's premier shopping and business district, between Park and Madison Avenues, the I.M. Pei-designed Four Seasons features stunning views and gracious style – a remarkable luxury experience, even by New York standards.

Four Seasons Hotel New York rises 52 storeys above Manhattan’s premier business and shopping district. The Hotel offers 368 oversized guest rooms, some with furnished terraces, including 63 suites. All guest rooms feature comfortable seating, a king-sized bed or two twin beds and a large marble bathroom.

Four Seasons Hotel New York rises 52 storeys above Manhattan’s premier business and shopping district. The Hotel offers 368 oversized guest rooms, some with furnished terraces, including 63 suites. All guest rooms feature comfortable seating, a king-sized bed or two twin beds and a large marble bathroom.

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon

With renowned restaurants in Paris, Tokyo and Las Vegas, legendary chef Joël Robuchon brings his breathtaking cuisine to Four Seasons Hotel New York at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon.

Sophisticated and elegant, the interior glistens with rich details in light wood and black and red lacquer – blending the style of French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon with the iconic architecture of I.M. Pei. In keeping with its atelier (artist’s workshop) approach, the heart of the restaurant is the open kitchen – allowing guests to watch the culinary team at work.

Chef Robuchon focuses on the highest-quality ingredients, prepared with clockwork precision and abundant creativity. His casual French style shows a strong affection for Asian cuisine, with its simplicity of presentation, pure and flavourful sauces, and concentration on single, perfect ingredients.

With just 20 seats at the pearwood counter – considered the most desirable, with their view of the kitchen – and only 26 more at individual tables, L’Atelier offers an atmosphere that is both intimate and dynamic.
Specialties

Connoisseurs of Joël Robuchon’s restaurants in Paris, Tokyo and Las Vegas will be delighted to discover a selection of their favourite dishes in New York, including the much-beloved
pommes purée truffée (truffled mashed potatoes) and the famed caille farcie de foie gras et caramélisée (free-range quail stuffed with foie gras). New dishes have been created exclusively for Four Seasons Hotel New York, with additional choices evolving with the seasons.

A nightly tasting menu is featured for those who cannot decide among the à la carte choices. Small portions are thoughtfully offered, allowing guests to create their own multi-course Robuchon experience.

Preparing the signature cuisine of L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is Executive Chef Yosuke Suga and his team. Chef Suga was personally trained by Chef Robuchon and most recently reigned over the kitchen of L’Atelier in Tokyo.

Whether yours is just beginning, all grown-up or at any stage in-between, Four Seasons Hotel New York is a wonderful base for your family. We go out of our way to make our youngest guests feel welcome, and our resourceful Concierge is always close at hand – to make reservations for a family dinner, offer suggestions for tomorrow's outing or help arrange a babysitter. Children 18 years old and under can share their parents' room at no extra charge.
Children's amenities

Before your stay, simply provide us with the names and ages of the children in your party so that we can be prepared with:

* A welcome amenity for our youngest guests
* Child-size bathrobes
* Complimentary baby toiletries
* Children's menus in our restaurants and In-Room Dining
* Children's activity information

Upon request, and subject to availability:

* Items to childproof guest rooms
* Cribs and/or rollaway bed(s), at no extra charge and subject to maximum occupancy
* Complimentary colouring books, crayons, toys and board games
* Complimentary use of baby equipment (Diaper Genies, bottle warmers, strollers)
* Children's DVD and video tape lending library

Babysitting services

With 48 hours notice, we can arrange reliable babysitting services for your little ones. We will do anything possible to accommodate requests with shorter notice. We only refer experienced, bonded and insured babysitters. Please note that there is an hourly fee for this service, please contact the Concierge for details.
Family-oriented activities

Our Concierge would be pleased to suggest and help you arrange suitable activities for your family's ages and interests.

For our teen guests, during the summer months and most school holidays, our full-time Teen Concierge is ready to provide teen-savvy advice on what's hot in our city.
Complimentary off-site activities

* American Museum of Natural History
* Central Park: this 843-acre (341-hectares) park features character statues for children to find, including Alice in Wonderland, the Cheshire Cat and Balto
* Children's electronics and communication lab at Sony Wonder Lab
* Hudson River Park
* Metropolitan Museum of Art
* Museum of Television and Radio
* South Street Seaport

Note: Many museums are open to children at no cost, suggested donations only.
Other activities

Reservations and applicable fees may apply

* Boat tours
* Carriage rides
* Chelsea Center sports complex
* Helicopter tours
* Horseback riding
* IMAX films
* Playspace
* Rose Center for Earth and Space with a new state-of-the-art planetarium
* Transit Museum

Around the clock, Four Seasons can assist you with business, entertainment or travel arrangements through the Business Center and resourceful, multilingual Concierge.In addition, a semi-private room is available with conference call capabilities.
Business amenities and services

* 24-hour business services
* Audiovisual equipment
* Cellular telephones
* Computers
* Express check-in/check-out
* Japanese translation and interpretation service
* Secretarial service
* Translation and interpretation service
* Wired or wireless Internet access in meeting rooms